I am growing Knautia and phlox and this is the first year that they have really put on the blooms. My question is how can I best maintain their blooms and keep them blooming. My son and fiance are having an outdoor engagement party here in mid August and I would like to have as many blooms as possible in the yard. ( photo / image / picture from Jewell's Garden ) pink phlox ( photo / image / picture from Jewell's Garden ) Thanks for any input.
You've got me curious now, Jewell. Is there a way to keep the blooms for longer outside? I've seen people put umbrellas and parasols over paeonies to protect them from being ruined by the rain, but I guess that rain isn't your main concern here.
Droppy thanks for looking. I am hoping to keep the flower production on some perennials going a little longer. I've found that with the balloon flowers if I keep the spent flowers cut that keeps them producing flowers on side shoots. With the Knautia I am noticing a lot of seed pods (balls) if I prune the stem back will that keep them going with flowers better. And phlox I know from past experiences that I should dead head, but how much? Will the side shoots keep blooming. In the past I have just let things go to seed and not dead-headed. Now I guess I want to know which flower types (specifically perennials) continue producing with dead heading.
Droppy, we got a week of really hot weather (up to 97F). I used your covering/shading idea and it really worked well especially for the mop-head hydrenga and asiatic lilies. My back yard currently looks like tent city, but many flowers will make it to this week-end which is all I wanted. After the engagement party for my son and his fiance nature can take its course in the garden. garden tents for flowers???? ( photo / image / picture from Jewell's Garden )
Oh wow Jewell...I'm so glad you will still have color for the party! I never would have thought of tents!
I am amazed that shading worked. I'd have thought the heat would get to them no matter what. I'm so pleased for you, and good luck with the party.